Description
Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting and creamy baked dish combining tender cooked chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich blend of cream cheese, butter, and chicken soup. Flavored with Italian dressing mix and garlic, and topped with melted Colby Jack cheese, this casserole offers a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 3 cups cooked rice
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cubed and at room temperature
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed and at room temperature
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.7-ounce packet Italian dressing mix (e.g., Good Seasons)
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking during baking.
- Soften Butter and Cream Cheese: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the cubed unsalted butter and cream cheese for 20 to 30 seconds. Then whisk the mixture until it is smooth and creamy, ensuring easy incorporation into the casserole.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, cooked rice, softened butter and cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, and chicken stock. Add half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese to the mixture, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the blended mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish, ensuring a smooth and level surface.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole to create a cheesy crust once baked.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Bake until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling, indicating it is heated through.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked rice and chicken for best texture; day-old rice can also work well.
- Butter and cream cheese must be at room temperature and softened for easy mixing.
- If you prefer a thicker casserole, reduce the chicken stock slightly.
- Substitute Colby Jack cheese with Monterey Jack or mild cheddar for a slightly different flavor.
- Covering the casserole with foil during baking helps retain moisture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
